But a recent spike in new infections as a result of the more contagious delta variant upended that plan and has fueled concerns that the restrictions may persist beyond July 19. Scientists advising the government reckon that the delta variant, which was first found in India, is between 40% to 80% more transmissible than the previous dominant strain in the U.K. The delta variant accounted for around 90% of all new infections. The opposition Labour Party has put the blame for the spread of the delta variant squarely on the Conservative government, saying it was too slow in imposing the strictest quarantines on all arrivals from India. “They should have red-listed the delta variant, instead Boris Johnson showed it the red carpet,” said Jonathan Ashworth, Labour's health spokesman.

Source: ABC News June 15, 2021 10:43 UTC